Welcome to Smiles & Science! š¦·š„¼
By: Penelope Atkins
Who I Am and Why I'm Here
Hi, I’m Penelope Atkins, a pre-dental student at the University of Arkansas, majoring in Public Health. I created Smiles & Science to share my journey toward dental school, highlight oral health topics I care deeply about, and celebrate the incredible people and experiences that have shaped me along the way.
š¦· Why I Chose Dentistry
From a young age, I knew I wanted to be in healthcare, but my path to dentistry was shaped by a deeply personal experience. Growing up as a quiet, introspective person, I often felt like my voice wasn’t heard in group settings or busy environments. However, whenever I had the chance to speak with healthcare professionals—whether it was a school nurse, a doctor, or a dentist—I felt a unique sense of comfort and respect. They made me feel valued in a way that I hadn’t experienced elsewhere, and that left a lasting impression on me.
As I grew older, it became clear that dentistry offered a perfect blend of my interests and values. During my dental visits, I was always struck by how genuinely caring and compassionate my dental providers were. One particular dentist made me realize that great care isn’t just about fixing teeth—it’s about building trust and ensuring that patients feel at ease. Even something as simple as being listened to, without judgment, can transform an entire experience.
These moments reinforced my desire to pursue a career in dentistry. I want to provide more than just oral healthcare. I want to offer people a safe, welcoming space where they feel comfortable, heard, and respected. Whether it’s through a kind word, a smile, or just the reassurance that someone is truly listening, I aspire to be the kind of dentist who makes a difference in my patients' lives—one visit at a time.
š” The People Who Shaped Me
Everything I do is grounded in the love and encouragement of my family. Their unwavering support has been my foundation.
My mom, who immigrated from Peru, is one of my biggest inspirations. She’s shown me what it means to work tirelessly for what you believe in. Her courage and determination have taught me to never give up, no matter how difficult the journey may seem. But beyond that, she’s always believed in me—cheering me on, lifting me up, and supporting every decision I’ve made. Knowing I have her in my corner has made all the difference. The sacrifices my mom made to provide a better life for me are immeasurable. She worked hard to ensure I had every opportunity to succeed, often putting my needs above her own. Her strength has been the backbone of my journey, and her unwavering support continues to inspire me to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.
From her side of the family, my grandmother has been a constant presence in my life since I was a baby. She helped raise me and has always been there to guide me, encourage me, and offer unconditional love. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without her influence. Her wisdom and nurturing care have shaped who I am, and her impact on my life has been immeasurable. She made sure I never felt alone, offering comfort and support during both the small and big moments. Her presence is a foundation I will always be grateful for. As I grew older, I also witnessed the challenges my grandmother faced due to language barriers. This experience opened my eyes to how overwhelming and confusing healthcare can be for people who aren’t fully understood. It deepened my sense of purpose and strengthened my desire to make care more inclusive, compassionate, and human.
On my dad’s side, I’ve felt nothing but love and encouragement. My grandmother has always been a steady, nurturing presence in my life. She continuously supports me, always offering love and a listening ear whenever I need it. No matter what I’m going through, she’s there, patiently hearing my worries, offering advice, and reminding me of my strength. She shares her wisdom in the best possible way—through stories, memories, and thoughtful conversations that stay with me long after we talk. Her presence has shaped me in countless ways, and I’m endlessly grateful for everything she brings into my life. I’m endlessly thankful for the love, perspective, and strength she continues to share with me.
My grandfather, who spent his career delivering babies, has been a true inspiration. His work wasn’t just a job—it was a legacy of care and compassion. Knowing that he supported families through some of their most profound and life-changing moments has inspired me to follow in his footsteps, in my own way. Beyond his professional legacy, he has also been an incredible source of love and support in my life. His unwavering encouragement and the care he’s shown me have helped shape who I am today, and I am deeply grateful for everything he’s done for me.
And my dad—he’s been my rock. He has supported every decision I’ve ever made. Through each twist and turn in my journey, he’s always been there, offering encouragement, reassurance, and wisdom. His faith in me has given me the courage to take on new challenges and believe in myself, even when I’ve doubted. More than just a source of support, my dad has played a crucial role in shaping the person I am today. He’s taught me the importance of trustworthiness, integrity, and maintaining strong values, no matter the circumstances. His love and dedication have helped me become the person I am, and for that, I am forever grateful.
My brother, too, has been an invaluable part of my journey. He’s the one who always lifts me up, makes me laugh, and helps me see things from a fresh perspective. He’s not only a constant source of joy in my life, but also a source of sound advice when I need it most. His ability to listen, offer support, and remind me of my strength has been a grounding force, especially during challenging times. I’m thankful for the bond we share and the way he continuously brings positivity into my life.
Finally, to all of my family and relatives who’ve cheered me on along the way—thank you. Your love, kindness, and unwavering support have helped me become the person I am today.
š What I’m Doing Now
Right now, I’m fully focused on preparing for dental school and building the foundation that will help me become a compassionate, skilled, and community-focused dentist. Maintaining a strong GPA is a priority for me, but I also believe that academic success is just one part of what makes a well-rounded provider.
I dedicate a significant amount of my time volunteering at outreach events like ARMOM (Arkansas Mission of Mercy), where I have the privilege of providing free dental care to underserved communities. These experiences are not only incredibly rewarding but also help me understand the diverse needs of patients and the importance of accessibility in healthcare.
In addition to volunteer work, I’m actively seeking research opportunities that will allow me to explore the science behind dental care and expand my knowledge beyond the classroom. Shadowing dentists has also been a crucial part of my journey, giving me firsthand insight into the real-world challenges and rewards of the profession.
I’m also committed to growing as a leader through courses offered by the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). These courses have taught me invaluable skills like effective communication, time management, and teamwork, all of which will help me navigate the challenges of dental school and beyond. The NSLS has further fueled my passion for leadership, helping me understand how important it is to lead with empathy, integrity, and a focus on service to others.
Through all of these experiences, I strive to stay curious and continuously grow as a person and a future healthcare provider. I’m committed to becoming someone who listens deeply to patients, leads with empathy, and approaches every situation with the understanding that each individual’s needs and experiences are unique.
Becoming a dentist is not just about mastering technical skills, but also about cultivating the ability to connect with others, making them feel heard and respected. I’m building the skills and knowledge I need to do just that, and I’m excited for what’s to come.
✨ Why I Started This Blog
Smiles & Science is a space where I’ll share my experiences as a pre-dental student, highlight research and current topics in dentistry, and post resources for students—especially those from multicultural and first-generation backgrounds—who want to see themselves reflected in healthcare.
But beyond that, I created this blog to inspire those who may doubt themselves, to remind them that growth and success are possible, no matter where you start. I want to show others, especially students who feel overlooked or unsure of their potential, that they too have the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. No journey is too difficult, and every step, no matter how small, is progress. If I can do it, so can you. I believe in the power of determination and support, and I hope this blog serves as a reminder that you’re capable of achieving your dreams.
In an upcoming post, I’ll dive deeper into the importance of believing in yourself and how, even when the path seems uncertain, you can find your way to success. Stay tuned for that!
Whether you're here to follow my journey, learn something new, or simply find a bit of encouragement, I’m so glad you’re here.
I can’t wait to read your next post!
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